Patient Story: Overcoming Dental Infections

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates one in four adults have periodontal disease. They experience inflammation in the tissue that supports the teeth, especially the gum and bone.  

Bone loss is a primary feature of this chronic condition. The cause of this deterioration is dental infections. Let’s look at one patient’s journey with dental infections and jawbone deterioration.  

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A Patient Journey Overcoming Dental Infections

“I didn’t take very good care of my teeth growing up.”

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As an adult, Diamond had a history of periodontal disease. Through the years, he had cavities filled and root canals done, doing what he thought he needed to do to care for them. Ultimately, he wasn’t aware that an infection in his upper and lower jawbone had taken hold, causing more problems just under the surface.

When it became clear that Diamond had significant damage to his jawbone, his wife referred him to her dentist, Dr. Grady Scott with Bonita Beach Dental. Dr. Scott took 3-D scans of Diamond’s jaw and teeth to help him better understand what could be done to correct the damage. He was then able to develop a treatment that fit Diamond’s lifestyle and goals, correcting and preventing any further damage to his jaw, gums, and smile.  

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What Causes Jawbone Infections?

Hidden jawbone infections like the one this patient experienced often start in the mouth. It is normal for the bone in the jaw to constantly rebuild itself. This healthy process removes dead or damaged bone and replaces it with healthy tissue.  

Individuals with periodontal disease experience ongoing dental infections that spread to the bone. The body responds to the invasion of bacteria by breaking the bone down, allowing pockets to form between the gum and teeth.  

Food and debris get inside these pockets and that invites more bacteria and infection. Eventually, the bone starts to deteriorate faster than the body can rebuild it.  

Other possible causes of jawbone loss might include:

• Teeth grinding

• Poorly fitted dentures or bridges

• Facial trauma

• Jaw misalignment

• Infection in the bone marrow

• Tumors and cancer

Any of these conditions can leave you looking for a restorative dental option to repair your jawbone.  

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What Is the Treatment for Jawbone Loss?

Like Diamond, you will need custom-designed treatment that fits the extent of the damage and your lifestyle. It may require a combination of bone graphs and dental implants.  

As with many things, though, the best treatment is prevention. Periodontal disease is preventable in most cases. That starts with good oral hygiene.  

Preventing periodontal disease requires:

• Effective and consistent brushing and flossing – Brush twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily, as well, using an interdental brush, water flosser, or dental floss. If you are unsure how, ask our knowledgeable staff for a demonstration.  

• Regular dental check-ups – Professional dental examination and cleaning help stop periodontal disease before it can start.

• Eat healthy – Stay away from sugary or processed foods. Eat whole foods that aid in keeping teeth clean such as carrots or celery.  

• Avoid smoking – Tobacco use can increase plaque leading to gum infections.  

If you are a Florida resident with jawbone damage, see the top implant dentist in Bonita Beach to get a tailored smile treatment. Dr. Grady Scott and the skilled staff at Bonita Beach Dental use advanced dental technologies and provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere to ensure you not only receive the best possible smile care, but that your dental experience is one that is relaxing, comfortable, and compassionate. Contact us today for a consultation to get started!

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